Barbara Pinseria & Cocktail Bar menu overview

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach, Barbara Pinseria & Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant and authentic taste of Roman-inspired Italian cuisine. With a warm 1960s ambiance rich in orange hues, this spacious spot invites food lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike to indulge in expertly crafted dishes alongside an inventive drink menu. Whether you're dining indoors or enjoying the outdoor seating, the open kitchen adds a touch of theater to every meal.

Starters and small plates

Begin your Italian culinary journey with classic appetizers like bruschetta, featuring crisp toasted bread topped with vibrant seasonal ingredients. Or savor perfectly fried calamari and shrimp, a favorite that pairs wonderfully with the bar’s cocktail offerings and sets an inviting tone for the meal ahead.

Mains

Barbara Pinseria shines brightest with its hearty pasta and main dishes, deeply rooted in Roman culinary tradition. Dive into the rich and comforting Pappardelle Bolognese, where tender pasta ribbons are enveloped in a robust meat and tomato sauce. The Rigatoni Carbonara offers a creamy blend of eggs, pork cheek, and pecorino romano, cooked to perfect al dente. For a peppery and cheesy delight, the Spaghetti Cacio & Pepe balances pecorino romano with bold black pepper, a timeless Roman classic. The Bucatini Amatriciana combines pork cheek with a tangy tomato sauce and pecorino romano for a satisfying experience. Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh Spaghetti Vongole, enhanced with clams, garlic, and lemon zest for a bright finish. For those seeking protein-driven plates, options like Branzino served with salsa verde and zucchini, roasted Porchetta with pork shoulder and arugula, and the elegant Veal Saltimbocca featuring sage, prosciutto, and mushrooms round out the menu with memorable flavor combinations.

Desserts

Complement your meal with a selection of traditional Italian desserts. Though the menu changes seasonally, expect indulgent sweets that perfectly balance sweetness and richness, ideal for capping off your elegant dining experience.

Cocktails and drinks

The cocktail bar is a highlight of Barbara Pinseria, mixing creative drinks that showcase a blend of Italian flavors and contemporary twists. Try the Barbarella with bourbon, prickly pear, lime, and balsamic for a bold, balanced sip. The Dolce Vita combines rye, salted creme de cacao, and orange bitters for a smooth finish. For heat lovers, the Cinecitta blends dark rum, Averna, walnut bitter, and Calabrian chili oil. Lighter options include the Mosto Mule with vodka, ginger beer, grape juice, and lime juice, or the Vacanze Romane offering Campari, gin, and Galliano espresso. Other enticing cocktails include Carlito's Way with tequila and mirto, and the Piaggio featuring Amalfi gin, limoncello, and olive oil. This diverse menu ensures there’s a perfect drink to accompany every dish and mood.

Signature specials and highlights

Open kitchen experience – Watch skilled chefs prepare your meal, adding vibrant energy to your dining.
Pinsa-style pizzas – A unique Roman pizza variation that’s both light and flavorful.
Outdoor seating – Enjoy fresh air and vibrant neighborhood views while dining.

Barbara Pinseria & Cocktail Bar is the perfect destination for anyone craving authentic Italian flavors delivered with passion and style. Whether you're a foodie, a digital nomad seeking a lively lunch spot, or a group of friends looking for a memorable dinner, this North Beach gem offers an inviting atmosphere and a menu that celebrates the best of Roman cuisine and Italian mixology.

4.4

431 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

(415) 445-3009

Open Now - Closing 11:00 PM

Monday

17:00–22:00

Tuesday

17:00–22:00

Wednesday

17:00–22:00

Thursday

17:00–22:00